weather. However, one net maker told a researcher about his
encounter with a ghost ship. He saw a schooner, a ship that was preva-
lent in the nineteenth century, come in across the Gulf and pass
through water that was far too shallow for a ship of its size. The ship
then suddenly disappeared from sight.
Commercial fishing is considered to be the most hazardous of all
industrial occupations in the United States. Statistics show that fish-
ermen are seven times more likely to die than workers in the next most
dangerous occupation. Adhering to a system of beliefs most likely
helps bring sense and order to a world in which natural disasters and
misfortune are a part of daily life. Many fishermen also make a pre-
carious living at best. Maritime beliefs contain the collective wisdom
of generations and following these traditions may help fishermen
catch more fish without taking unnecessary risks.- In line 4, the phrase manifest in certain practicesmost nearly means
a. obviously rehearsed.
b.recorded in some religions.
c. destined in certain circumstances.
d.evident in particular activities.
e.decreed in unwavering terms. - According to the passage, fishermen are superstitious because
a. they learn it from previous generations.
b.they believe in the supernatural.
c. fishing is a dangerous and unpredictable occupation.
d.they are afraid of stormy weather.
e.fishing is a terrible way to make a living. - The author’s attitude toward fishermen’s beliefs about predicting
the weather can best be characterized as
a. unqualified respect.
b.veiled disbelief.
c. tempered belief.
d.absolute fascination.
e.minimal enthusiasm.
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